The Levant

A historic eastern Mediterranean region linking Africa, Asia, and Europe through trade, religion, and culture.

Welcome to the Levant

The Levant is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited regions, stretching along the eastern Mediterranean. From the rise of ancient civilizations like the Canaanites and Phoenicians, through pivotal moments in trade, culture, and religion, it has shaped the course of history. Today, it encompasses Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, and Palestine, blending ancient traditions with vibrant modern cultures.

Historical Timeline

  • c. 3300 BCE

    Early urban settlements begin in the Levant (Canaanite cities).

  • c. 2000 BCE

    Emergence of trade networks connecting Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Levant.

  • c. 1000 BCE

    Kingdoms of Israel and Judah are established.

  • 332 BCE

    Alexander the Great conquers the Levant, Hellenistic period begins.

  • 637 CE

    Arab Muslim conquest of the Levant.

  • 1516 CE

    Ottoman Empire rules the Levant until early 20th century.

  • 1948 CE

    Modern state of Israel established; modern borders begin to form.

Modern Countries

Cultural Facts

The Levant is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions in the world.

It sits at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Phoenician traders from this region helped spread the alphabet.

Jerusalem, Damascus, and Beirut are among the regionโ€™s most historic cities.

The Levant has been important to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Gallery

Petra โ€“ Jordan
Petra โ€“ Jordan
Cedar trees โ€“ Lebanon
Cedar trees โ€“ Lebanon
Aleppo โ€“ Syria
Aleppo โ€“ Syria
Western Wall โ€“ Israel
Western Wall โ€“ Israel
Dome of the Rock โ€“ Palestine
Dome of the Rock โ€“ Palestine
โ† Back to Middle East Map